The Common
Dear Nashoba Community,
Last week, our Teaching and Learning Department shared an important update with our school community about the upcoming transition to digital delivery for K-8 report cards. I want to highlight the significance of this shift in this week’s newsletter, as it plays a key role in strengthening home-school connections and enhancing our communication systems to keep families informed about student progress.
Starting this trimester (Trimester 1), report cards will be provided through Digital Document Delivery. Report cards, originally scheduled for distribution on December 16th, will now be securely delivered via email to all families on December 18th between 3:00–5:00 PM. Families should have received communication from their building principal(s) with clear instructions on how to access their child’s report card. To ensure security, the report cards will be password-protected.
It is our hope that this updated process will improve communication with our families, provide greater convenience, and support our efforts to reduce our environmental footprint. Families who prefer a physical copy of their child’s report card may request one through the school office.
Peace,
Kirk Downing (He/Him)
Superintendent
Middle School Visits
We’ve reached the time of year when our high school team begins working with our 8th-grade students to help them prepare for the transition to high school. Over the last two weeks, Dr. Boynton, Department Heads, and some amazing high school student volunteers visited with Florence Sawyer and Hale eighth grade students (don't worry LBMS, they'll be dropping by for you next week!). These interactive visits offer students the chance to learn about courses, try some fun activities, talk with current high schoolers, and discover what makes Nashoba such a special place.
In addition to these visits, we will also be offering a series of resources and events to support students and families during this important transition. Our Future Focus Newsletters highlight key aspects of high school, including core courses, electives, athletics, and extracurriculars. In January, we will host Future Freshman Night, a chance for families to meet staff and explore all that high school has to offer. And, over the course of winter and spring, guidance counselors will also visit middle schools to assist with course selection and to answer questions.
We’re excited to help our 8th-grade students feel confident and ready for this important step, and we look forward to welcoming them to the high school next year. Stay tuned for more updates and information.
The Great Road Podcast: Portraits and Portfolios at NRHS
Join Us for a Pre-Kindergarten Information Session!
Learn about our 2025/2026 Pre-Kindergarten program and meet our wonderful teachers during an upcoming information session on January 15, 2025. We’re offering two convenient formats: a virtual session at 10:00 AM and an in-person session at 6:00 PM at Florence Sawyer School. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore what our program has to offer for your little one! If you have questions please reach out directly to Kristen Ryan, Director of Early Childhood at kryan@nrsd.net.
Register here to reserve your spot today!
Cold and Flu Season is Here, What Can You Do to Reduce Your Risk of Getting Sick?
As the colder months approach, we enter the peak season for colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. The District’s Local Board of Health recently notified the towns they serve that there is a higher rate of illness than usual across the Commonwealth at this time of year. In an effort to educate and support families, Nashoba’s Health and Wellness Department is reaching out with reminders about how to reduce your risk of contracting and spreading illness during winter and the respiratory illness season!
Key Points to Prevent Illness
Hygiene Practices
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before eating.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Avoid touching your face.
Use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren't available.
Stay home if you're sick.
Vaccination:
- Get vaccinated against common viruses like influenza, Covid, pertussis, and RSV.
More On Nashoba SEPAC's Upcoming Events
Nashoba SEPAC offers virtual and in-person events to families. To learn more about upcoming events and to access important meeting links see the download below.
Coming up next! SEPAC will be hosting a SEPAC Social at the Lancaster Community Center on January 14th, 2025 between 6:30-8:00pm. It's a great chance to socialize with SEPAC officers and other parents/caregivers!
Another week of successful performances in the books! This past week featured Hale Middle School's version of Adams Family, the FSS Winter Chorus Concert (pictured left), and the NRHS Combined Winter Concert! Earlier this month, Nashoba Drama presented A Christmas Carol, and Luther Burbank students showcased their talents during a choral and band concert.
If you missed these events, don’t worry—there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy upcoming performances. You can find the full upcoming performances list and a fun poll below! Can you guess correctly?
Nashoba Notable Award! Thank a Nashoba Employee!
Celebrating everyday greatness! Is there a Nashoba teacher or staff member out there who you think deserves some special recognition? Send a Nashoba Notable Award their way! Fill out the form below and thank a Nashoba employee today!
Nashoba Notable Awards thank Nashoba employees for supporting students, families, and their school communities in all ways great and small.
Employees will receive a certificate that includes a brief explanation from the nominator of why they are Nashoba Notable. This form is open to everyone. Students, families, staff and community members can send a Nashoba Notable Award to any Nashoba employee.
There is no limit to the number of Nashoba Notable Awards someone may receive. Thank a Nashoba employee today!
